On the night after the party, as usual, the coaching staff gathered for their traditional "Beer Night"—a casual evening of drinks and conversation.
Originally, a few players joined in—Ronaldo, Ferdinand, McNamara, Lennon, and Savage—but with Boxing Day fixtures looming, their glasses were limited. The squad had been given strict instructions regarding alcohol and discipline.
In the hotel's recreation room, Robertson, Walford (coach), and Genoe (GK coach) played pool, while Richard, O'Neill, and Domènec Torrent—the current City youth head—sat at the bar, nursing drinks and swapping stories.
"How's the current U-17 squad?" Richard asked as he sipped his orange juice. "Anyone you'd recommend?"
